The Abbotsford School District is providing over 300 meals weekly to families in need. With the help of local community partners, the school district continues to offer food service programs to vulnerable students and families.

"We know that many of our families are struggling with food security in addition to all the other social, emotional and financial pressures during these incredibly challenging times. We want to do everything we can to ease that burden," said Stan Petersen, Chair for the Abbotsford Board of Education. "Our staff and local partners have ramped up their efforts to ensure full continuity of our food service program, and we are incredibly grateful for their support and partnership."

The school-based meal program now extends into the homes of families that have been identified as those most in need. The district's meal provider, Fuel Up! School Lunch Program, has been conducting door-to-door delivery to students and families in need since April 7th. The Starfish Program, the school district's partnership with the Archway Community Services through the Abbotsford Food Bank, has also provided an additional 500 $50 gift cards to families in need and will be delivering added food hampers beginning in May.

"Adequate nutrition is necessary to support positive education and health outcomes, and we are committed to supporting our families in this way during this time," noted Dr. Kevin Godden, Superintendent of Schools. "We appreciate all the support, donations and efforts put forward by staff and our community to ensure these nutritious meals have made it to the homes for families in need."

The Abbotsford School District is prepared to continue weekly meal delivery service to all families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic and while in-class instruction is suspended, to ensure those that are most vulnerable to receive support.